A botanical specimen is a sample of a plant preserved by a specific method, usually for educational, research, and display purposes. This technique dates back to the Renaissance, when early botanists recorded the morphology, characteristics and ecological environment of plants through specimen collection, which laid the foundation for later botanical research.
The process of preparing plant specimens generally includes collection, dehydration, pressing and drying. First, choose a healthy plant sample and ensure its integrity. Next, the water is removed by dehydration to prevent decay. Press the plant between the sheets to make sure it is flat. Finally, dry thoroughly under the right conditions to preserve color and shape.
Plant specimens have important scientific value. They not only help botanists identify and classify plants, but also serve as an important basis for ecological research, environmental monitoring and biodiversity conservation. In addition, plant specimens also play an important role in the field of education, helping students understand the growth, classification and ecological relationships of plants.
By studying plant specimens, we can not only appreciate the beauty of nature, but also gain insight into the important role of plants in the ecosystem. Each specimen is a small window into nature, revealing the wonder and variety of life.